Not all CBD oils are created the same. If you look into this famous and now versatile compound, you’ll often see terms like ‘broad-spectrum’, ‘full spectrum’ and ‘CBD isolate’ used to describe different CBD products. Here, we’re examining the various features of full-spectrum CBD, also identified as ‘whole-plant cannabidiol’, owing to its infamous profile. But we will look at that later.  

Keep reading to learn about everything full-spectrum and how it is derived from the cannabis plant. This is your personal CBD guide, featuring guidance on how it varies from broad-spectrum and isolated blends, plus how you can decide for yourself its potential and if it’s right for you…

CBD is a very beneficial natural treatment for many ailments and illnesses. It can be used in different ways and it is easy to find out if CBD can help you and what CBD is good for.

It is created from the cannabis plant and is usually associated with pain relief or anxiety, but there are so many different types on the market today it is hard to know what it is. So, we have decided to keep things simple.

What Does Full-Spectrum CBD Oil Mean? 

To know about full-spectrum CBD, you must understand the three essential compounds located in the cannabis plant: cannabinoids, flavonoids and terpenes. Here’s what they each do…

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids, such as CBD, are said to react and communicate with your body’s built-in (ECS) endocannabinoid system; the ingenious device that manages various human functions, like your immune system and central nervous system.

As part of this device, you have cannabinoid receptors positioned throughout your body which, when stimulated, can bring stability to a targeted zone.

Your body instinctively and consistently generates endocannabinoids – also known as endogenous cannabinoids – which attach to these receptors and help to support effective homeostatic stability.

Scientists conclude that specific cannabinoids detected in the cannabis plant can also influence these receptors, copying the balancing impact of endocannabinoids.

Terpenes

These are the fragrant compounds that give lavender, strawberries and eucalyptus their trademark scent. Terpenes are also accountable for the immediately recognizable scent of cannabis.

twisted peach cbd jelly bomb

For example, when you smell our Peach Jelly Bomb Twisted Extracts, you will instantly be able to tell what it is!

However, they do more than offer aromatic qualities; they may also have natural healing benefits and therapeutic characteristics, such as calming inflammation or administering antioxidant ability.

Flavonoids

Located in multiple fruits and vegetables, flavonoids work in harmony with terpenes to make individual fragrances and tastes possible – including the cannabis plant.

They’re also considered to be highly active in medicinal properties, which implies they may have antifungal and antioxidant qualities, amongst other benefits.

How do these compounds affect Full Spectrum CBD?

A full-spectrum CBD oil is produced from the components of the entire cannabis plant, including terpenes, flavonoids and other cannabinoids, such as CBG. There will additionally be traces of THC – the principal psychoactive compound detected in cannabis – but all CBD products in the UK should have diminutive, virtually non-existent quantities.

By offering this diversity of compounds, full-spectrum CBD can spark something called ‘The Entourage Effect’, whereby the terpenes, flavonoids and cannabinoids magnify one another’s effects.

So, rather than just taking CBD, you’re receiving other portions of the plant as well, which are believed to work collectively to produce extra perks.

The differences between Full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate

CBD isolate is contrary to what we’ve just explained. It contains CBD only, with none of the added cannabinoids, flavonoids and terpenes combined. It’s the purest form of the compound possible, and ideal for those who only require CBD, without any additional ingredients.

It also tends to be flavour-free and fragrance-free, making it a favourite choice for those who don’t like the taste of broad-spectrum or full-spectrum blends. However, while analysis on isolate versus full-spectrum is still in its initial stages, it’s understood that the latter holds more benefits than CBD isolate.

The difference between Full-spectrum CBD and broad-spectrum CBD

While a broad-spectrum CBD oil carries several of the compounds found within the cannabis plant, it doesn’t have the same powerful terpene, flavonoid or cannabinoid content as a full spectrum.

If you’re susceptible to THC, no matter how small the amount, you may prefer to take broad-spectrum CBD, which does not contain any parts of this compound. It’s completely removed as part of the broad-spectrum extraction method.

However, it’s worth understanding that full-spectrum CBD includes only trace measures of THC, which should come well under the (very low) legal limit.

Is full spectrum CBD legal?

is cbd oil legal

This question depends on where you live in the world. In Canada, you can buy CBD without any complications whatsoever.

In the States, there are some states that make CBD legal while other states have not legalized the hemp plant.

Providing it has less than 1mg of THC, full-spectrum CBD products are perfectly legal in the UK. 

If you’re ever doubtful, look to brands that are freely displaying lab reports that explain the THC content of each oil. For those who are concerned, however, about failing a drug test due to THC, we recommend taking a THC-free, broad-spectrum product.

Where to buy full spectrum CBD

Now you know about the characteristics and features of full-spectrum CBD, you may be interested in trying an oil for yourself. You can browse CBD Oil Canada for a large selection of products to choose from.

Wellness and CBD retailers, such as California-based Flourish + Live Well, offer high-quality full-spectrum CBD products and can answer any additional questions you may have. Businesses like these prioritize your health and wellness and can help you determine which products are best for you.  

We always recommend you consult your doctor prior to trying CBD products due to possible interactions with the medication you are currently taking.

But generally speaking, CBD works well with conventional medicines. Tinctures are easy to use as you can use the dropper and place the required dose under the tongue simply. Consisting of a range of oils in varying strengths available, it allows you to start with low strength and dose at first, then adjusts as and when needed.

For more information regarding CBD topics, you can check out the following articles on our blog:

  1. How Long Does It Take For CBD Oil To Work For Pain Relief
  2. Cannabis For Anxiety Canada
  3. What Are Cannabis Topicals and How Do They Work?